6 unmissable Christmas and New Year's events in Italy ✨

From December to January, Italian cities radiate festive splendor with Christmas markets, concerts, dazzling lights, and nativity scenes.

If you are thinking of visiting Italy, this could be the best time to experience the magic of Christmas through unique traditional celebrations. Read more about the top 6 beautiful Christmas and New Year’s events in Italy and book your ferry trip on Ferryhopper!

1. Sicily: the living nativity scene
2. Gubbio: the biggest Christmas tree in the world
3. Polignano a Mare: the "Once Upon a Christmas" event
4. Salerno: the "Artist's Lights"
5. Giglio island: the underwater nativity scene
6. Sardinia: New Year's Eve in Castelsardo

Sicilian ceramic figurines made for Christmas in Italy

1. The living nativity scene in Sicily

Every year Sicily revives its living nativity scenes, one of the most popular Christmas traditions in southern Italy. Cities, villages, and historic places become the stages for the scenic representation of the Presepe vivente, a medieval ritual that even nowadays involves people of all ages.

If you want to be enchanted by the spirit of Italian Christmas this year, you shouldn’t miss some of the most famous living nativity scenes in Sicily. The living nativity scene in Gangi, near Palermo, stands out as one of the biggest, featuring over 200 actors. The living nativity scene in Custonaci (a picturesque village in the province of Trapani) is the oldest one and it is performed inside a cave. Last but not least, the living nativity scene in Montalbano Elicona, in the province of Messina, is recognized as the best in Sicily.

Mark your calendar, as these captivating performances typically take place from the 26th of December to the 6th of January, and it’s an experience you can’t miss! Beyond religious significance, this tradition has a social and cultural importance and opens a gateway to discovering ancient crafts, savoring local flavors, and exploring Sicily in all its authentic glory.

2. The Gubbio Christmas tree in the Umbria region

Embracing the festive spirit, the quaint town of Gubbio (just 1 hour 20 minutes from Ancona) undergoes a magical transformation during the Christmas season.

Adding to the town's inherent charm, Gubbio boasts a Christmas tree that steals the show: a Guinness World Record masterpiece! On the 7th of December each year, the skies above Gubbio come alive with a dazzling display of multicolor LED lights, forming a towering spectacle over 700 meters high on the slopes of Mount Ingino.

The Gubbio Christmas tree illuminates the night sky daily from sunset to late at night, gracing the landscape until mid-January. This extraordinary sight is visible from afar, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Also, Gubbio's Christmas celebration goes beyond its famous tree, featuring markets, nativity scenes, and many enjoyable activities for children.

The Gubbio Christmas tree, the largest in the world

3. Christmas vibes in Polignano a Mare, Puglia

Thinking of planning a getaway to the Puglia region and taking the ferry from Patras to Bari? Then, you should definitely catch the magical event C’era una volta Natale (Once Upon a Christmas) in Polignano a Mare, a charming village just 40 km from Bari.

Running every year from the 8th of December to the first week of January, this extraordinary celebration offers a mix of musical performances, theater shows, circus acts, captivating storytelling, and vibrant local craft markets.

And let's not forget the gastronomic delights! Treat yourself with Apulian products and mouth-watering street food from the stands scattered around the main squares of Polignano a Mare, where you'll also find an ice rink adding to the festive atmosphere. That’s the perfect way to experience the holiday spirit in the heart of Puglia!

4. Salerno’s Christmas lights (Luci d’Artista)

For a truly enchanting Christmas experience, consider heading to Salerno town, in southern Italy, to witness its mesmerizing "Artist's Lights"!

Each year, Salerno transforms its streets and squares with thematic light installations, turning every corner into a delightful surprise. This city becomes the perfect place to absorb the magical atmosphere of Christmas, while savoring the local delicacies and taking your Italian passeggiata through its illuminated wonderland!

The grand unveiling of Salerno's Christmas lights typically kicks off in early December. However, the magic lingers until the end of January, offering an alternative setting for a unique New Year's Eve celebration in Italy and along the picturesque Amalfi Coast.

Tip: the best way to reach the Amalfi Coast is by ferry from Salerno. Check out the Salerno - Positano ferry and set the tone for your coastal adventure in Italy!

A fantastic light installation at the Luci d'Artista in Salerno

5. The underwater nativity scene in Giglio island

Experience a Christmas like no other on the enchanting island of Giglio, in the Tuscan archipelago! On the 25th of December each year, a truly unique and captivating tradition unfolds: it's the underwater nativity scene in the stunning bay of Giglio Campese, a testament to passion and creativity.

Divers and curious visitors can swim into the crystal-clear waters of Giglio island to witness firsthand this extraordinary portrayal of the nativity scene on the seabed. 

The concept of an underwater nativity scene originated in 1986 when a group of local divers blended their love for the sea with the festive spirit of Christmas. Over the years, this event has evolved into a much-anticipated annual tradition.

Hop on the ferry from Porto Santo Stefano to Giglio and celebrate Christmas with a touch of adventure!

6. New Year's Eve in Sardinia

How about exploring the enchanting Sardinia beyond the summer months? 

This beautiful Italian island could also be a unique spot to ring in the New Year! Precisely, the charming village of Castelsardo, located in the north and just 34 km from Porto Torres, hosts one of the most beautiful New Year's Eve events.

Renowned for its medieval streets and captivating seaside setting, Castelsardo turns New Year's Eve into a stylish celebration. Music, dancing, DJs and spectacular fireworks transform the entire village into an open-air disco for a collective toast to the upcoming year.

Check out all the available ferry routes to Sardinia, and get ready for a guaranteed fun-filled trip!

Castelsardo celebrating New Year’s Eve

'Tis the season to start plotting your Christmas getaway!🎄 Check out our Map of ferries and explore the festive beauty of Italy!

Tip: you can also read our article on all-year top things to do in Italy to plan your trip at its best!